Trained by John Cooper for owner Ron Hartley, Moonist has become one of the all-time great runners in Los Alamitos history. The Separatist gelding has won 10 stakes races at the Orange County oval, a feat that has only been matched 12 other times in the track’s 64-year history.

“He’s a dandy,” Cooper said of Moonist, last year’s AQHA champion aged gelding. “He’s smart, and he doesn’t waste a thing.”

Far Niente is trained by Jose Hernandez for owners Tom Atwood and John Wells. The 5-year-old gelded son of FDD Dynasty was scratched out of the September 20, $100,000 Go Man Go Handicap (G1), which was won by Moonist, due to a minor foot ailment.

The Los Alamitos Invitational Championship will mark Far Niente’s first start since July 5, when he scored a wire-to-wire, 1 1/4-length victory in the 400-yard, $145,500 Vessels Maturity (G1).

The winner of this race will earn a berth in the Grade 1, 440-yard Champion of Champions at Los Alamitos on December 12.

About the Association

The American Quarter Horse Association, located in Amarillo, Texas, is the world’s largest equine breed registry and membership organization.

AQHA members share a passion for the American Quarter Horse and the vast lifestyle created by the world’s most popular horse.

Whether you’re a seasoned horse show veteran, a fan of the race track, a backyard horse enthusiast or simply someone dreaming of someday owning a horse, AQHA membership will benefit you in countless ways.